Council approves fenced beer garden at Sidner Ice Arena after debate over youth events

The Fremont City Council approved an Outdoor Special Designated License (SDL) allowing Sidner Ice Arena (operator: SCT LLC d/b/a Sidner Arena) to operate a fenced beer garden on six dates tied to Midland hockey and football events, after staff explained the area will be enclosed and accessed only through the arena's main entrance.

City Clerk Michael Chhatterson reviewed the application and said the SDL would allow the licensed retail establishment to extend service onto the east-side fenced area for up to six eligible dates. Sidner representatives said the fenced area is already in place, would be gated, and that patrons must enter through the arena's main door.

Council members questioned whether any dates coincided with youth tournaments and whether the proposed hours—some spanning late evening—were appropriate. Sidner representatives said the July 18 tournament is a youth tournament but that for that event liquor would be sold only indoors; the other dates were described as collegiate-level events. A public commenter objected to alcohol sales at events attended by youth.

Councilman Vaughn moved to approve, citing improved controls compared with a prior, less-regulated request; the motion carried 6 yays and 2 nays. Council members said they will monitor future requests to avoid scope creep that would routinely place alcohol near youth sporting events.

What the approval includes: A fenced beer garden on specified dates with entry through the arena interior; sales would stop at times tied to event periods as described by the operator. The council did not vote to change the arena's underlying liquor license; it approved SDL dates subject to the conditions discussed at the meeting.